Clear Creek Canyon Park

Clear Creek Canyon Park Header Photo

Clear Creek Canyon Park offers unique recreation experiences among its steep canyon walls and fast flowing creek. With the opening of a segment of the Peaks to Plains Trail, bicycles are allowed in the canyon for the first time. Use caution when accessing the creek and engaging in high-risk activities such as rock climbing, kayaking and rafting. Anglers must carry a valid Colorado fishing license with habitat stamp. Gold prospectors must adhere to Open Space Regulations.

Peaks to Plains Trail
The current Peaks to Plains Trail in Clear Creek Canyon is 3.75 miles of 10' wide concrete and is ADA accessible. Learn more about the Peaks to Plains Trail.
Peaks to Plains Trail Infographic

Mayhem Gulch Trailhead
32447 US Highway 6
Golden, CO 80403

Clear Creek Canyon Cannonball Flats Access
33708 US Highway 6
Golden, CO 80403

Clear Creek Canyon Big Easy Trailhead
32088 US Highway 6
Golden, CO 80403

CLOSURES: Portions of the park near Mile Marker 270 and near Tunnel 2 are closed to all public use uphill of US Highway 6 from February 1 through July 31 to protect raptor nesting territory. 

Learn more

Clear Creek Canyon Park Facts
Clear Creek Canyon Park Map
Prospecting Regulations

Prospecting is prohibited in some areas at the Big Easy Trailhead. See posted signs.

  • Digging into or destruction of stable shoreline, banks or existing vegetation is not permitted
  • All prospecting holes must be filled in before leaving site
  • Dredges and equipment may not be left overnight
  • No prospecting within 100 feet of structures including bridges, steps and
    fish habitat improvements
  • Only dredges with a nozzle diameter of four inches or fewer are permitted
  • No dripping or leaking of fuel or oil allowed
Park Regulations Image